Equine gastric ulcers are a common ailment in horses, affecting up to 90% of performance horses. However, even if a horse is treated for ulcers and the ulcer is resolved, some horses continue to display symptoms associated with ulcers, such as poor appetite, weight loss, and poor condition. This is known as “post-ulcer syndrome.” In this blog post, we will discuss post-ulcer care and prevention, as well as the reasons why some horses continue to exhibit ulcer symptoms even after treatment.
Prevention and Care The best way to deal with ulcers is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Horses are natural grazers and have evolved to graze for extended periods. Therefore, keeping a horse’s stomach full is important to maintaining its health. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals, and providing access to forage at all times can help prevent ulcers.
If a horse has been diagnosed with ulcers, treatment typically involves medications that decrease acid production in the stomach. But once the ulcers are healed, the focus should shift to preventing future ulcers and managing post-ulcer syndrome.
Post-ulcer Syndrome Post-ulcer syndrome can occur when a horse has been treated for ulcers, but continues to show symptoms associated with ulcers. These symptoms can include loss of appetite, weight loss, and poor condition.
One reason for post-ulcer syndrome is that the healing of the ulcer can leave scar tissue, which can be sensitive to acid production and create the same symptoms as ulcers. Another reason may be due to a change in the microbial population in the gut, as prolonged acid exposure can disrupt the microbiome.
In addition, the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can contribute to post-ulcer syndrome. NSAIDs can cause gastric ulcers and increase the risk of ulcers developing or returning, even after treatment.
The touch points to check if your horse still reacts to ulcer pain are the following:
Girth area:
Horses with ulcers may become sensitive in the girth area when a saddle is placed on their back, as the pressure can aggravate the ulcers.
Flanks:
Horses with ulcers may also become sensitive to pressure on their flanks, which can cause discomfort.
Back:
Some horses may develop back pain as a result of ulcers, so it’s important to check for signs of discomfort when grooming or tacking up.
Attitude:
Horses with ulcers may also exhibit changes in behavior, such as becoming irritable or reluctant to work, which can be an indication of discomfort or pain.
Eating habits:
Horses with ulcers may have a decreased appetite or reluctance to eat, especially if the ulcers are in the stomach. Keep an eye on your horse’s eating habits to make sure they are maintaining a healthy appetite.
It’s important to note that these touch points may not necessarily indicate ulcers, as they can also be caused by other conditions. It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian if you suspect your horse may be experiencing pain or discomfort.
As a horse owner, I was devastated when my gelding Sibel was diagnosed with gastric ulcers. Despite following the treatment protocol and modifying his diet, Sibel continued to show symptoms such as poor appetite, weight loss, and a sour attitude. It wasn’t until we started addressing post-ulcer syndrome that we began to see real progress.
Initially, Sibel was very sensitive and reactive to touch, particularly in his flank and girth area. We worked with a massage therapist who taught us techniques to release tension in these areas, as well as exercises to help Sibel stretch and build strength. Over time, we noticed that he was much more relaxed and willing to engage in work.
We also implemented a strict riding plan, gradually increasing the length and intensity of our rides. We made sure to incorporate plenty of breaks, allowing Sibel to stretch and rest. By following this plan, we were able to build up his fitness and stamina while minimizing stress on his digestive system.
It wasn’t an easy road, but with patience and perseverance, Sibel made a full recovery. He’s now happy, healthy, and back to his old self. If you’re dealing with post-ulcer syndrome in your horse, don’t give up hope. With the right treatment plan and plenty of love and care, your horse can overcome this condition and return to optimal health.
Thera are exercises that can help horses release tension and promote overall well-being, which can aid in post-ulcer syndrome recovery. Here are some exercises you can try with your horse:
Groundwork:
Groundwork exercises such as lunging, long lining, and round penning can help your horse release tension and anxiety.
One approach is to focus on exercises that promote relaxation and stress relief, such as walking, trotting, and lunging in a calm and controlled manner. Ground poles can also be used to encourage your horse to stretch and relax their back muscles. Additionally, exercises that encourage your horse to engage their hind end and lift their back, such as backing up or working over cavaletti poles, can help to strengthen their core muscles and reduce tension.
Stretching:
Stretching exercises can help your horse loosen up tight muscles and improve overall flexibility. You can do simple stretches with your horse, such as carrot stretches or leg stretches.
Massage:
Massaging your horse can help release muscle tension and promote relaxation. There are several types of massages you can try, such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and trigger point therapy.
By targeting specific points on the horse’s body, massage can help to release tension and promote relaxation.
One key area to focus on is the horse’s neck. The muscles in the neck can become tight and painful as a result of post-ulcer syndrome. Gently massaging these muscles, starting at the base of the neck and working your way up towards the ears, can help to relieve tension and discomfort.
Another important area to address is the horse’s back. Post-ulcer syndrome can cause the horse to carry tension in the muscles of the back, leading to stiffness and soreness. Massaging the back muscles, using long, sweeping strokes from the withers to the croup, can help to release this tension and promote relaxation.
It’s important to work with a qualified equine massage therapist when addressing post-ulcer syndrome in horses. A knowledgeable therapist can help to identify specific areas of tension and discomfort and develop a treatment plan tailored to your horse’s individual needs.
Riding:
Gentle riding can help your horse maintain his fitness and keep him mentally stimulated. You should always start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of the rides.
When designing a riding plan for a horse recovering from ulcers, it’s important to keep in mind that the horse’s physical and mental well-being should be the top priority. Here are some guidelines to consider:
Start slowly:
When reintroducing a horse to work after an ulcer episode, it’s important to start slowly and gradually increase the workload. This will allow the horse’s body to adjust to the increased demands and minimize the risk of re-injuring the digestive system.
Focus on relaxation:
Riding should be a calming experience for the horse, especially for one recovering from ulcers. Incorporate relaxation exercises like stretching and deep breathing to help the horse unwind and release tension.
Avoid stressful situations:
Stress can exacerbate ulcer symptoms, so it’s important to avoid situations that might cause anxiety or fear for the horse. This could include crowded arenas or trails, intense training sessions, or jumping.
Incorporate frequent breaks:
Taking frequent breaks during rides will give the horse a chance to rest and digest food, which can help prevent the development of new ulcers. This is especially important for horses with a history of ulcers.
Pay attention to diet:
Feeding a post-ulcer horse a healthy diet is crucial to aid in their recovery. Make sure to provide frequent small meals throughout the day instead of large meals to prevent the stomach from becoming too empty, which can irritate the ulcerated area. Additionally, consider adding supplements or medications prescribed by the veterinarian to support gut health.
Monitor for signs of discomfort:
Even after recovery, horses with a history of ulcers may be more prone to developing them in the future. It’s important to monitor for signs of discomfort, such as reluctance to work or changes in appetite, and consult with a veterinarian if any issues arise.
Remember, each horse’s recovery from ulcers will be unique, so it’s important to work with a veterinarian and tailor a riding plan to meet their individual needs.
Turnout:
Turnout is important for a horse’s overall health and well-being. Allowing your horse to have access to a pasture or a paddock where he can move around freely can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
One recommended book on equine ulcers and post-ulcer care is “Understanding Equine Ulcers: Your Guide to Horse Health Care and Management” by Vanessa Britton. This book provides a comprehensive guide to diagnosing, treating, and managing equine ulcers, including post-ulcer care and prevention. You can find the book on Amazon using this link: https://www.amazon.com/Understanding-Equine-Ulcers-Health-Management/dp/1629147129.
Conclusion Prevention is the key to avoiding ulcers in horses. Careful management of a horse’s diet and access to forage can go a long way in preventing ulcers from occurring. If a horse is diagnosed with ulcers, treatment should focus on not only healing the ulcers but also preventing future ulcers and managing post-ulcer syndrome. By taking these steps, we can help keep our equine friends healthy and happy.
As horse owners, we want to make sure we are giving our horses the best possible care, including appropriate exercise and training. One common question that comes up is, “How long should I train my horse daily?” The answer, of course, varies depending on the horse’s age, fitness level, and discipline. Let’s take a closer look at some of the factors to consider.
According to equine fitness expert Jec Aristotle Ballou, “The amount of time spent in exercise or training has less significance than how we use that time.” She emphasizes that quality is more important than quantity, and that we should focus on doing exercises that are beneficial for the horse’s specific needs. This could include a combination of riding, groundwork, and other forms of exercise.
It’s also important to take the horse’s age and fitness level into account. For example, a young horse may not have the physical capacity for a long training session, while an older horse may need more rest breaks. Ballou recommends starting with shorter sessions and gradually building up as the horse becomes more fit and able to handle longer work.
Another consideration is the discipline or activity the horse is being trained for. A horse in heavy work, such as a racehorse or eventer, will likely need longer training sessions than a horse used primarily for trail riding or pleasure riding. Ballou suggests varying the horse’s training schedule based on their discipline and goals.
It’s important to remember that each horse is an individual and may have different needs when it comes to training. As Ballou notes, “One horse may need a short, intense session to stay fit and focused, while another horse may do better with longer, more relaxed sessions.”
When I first adopted my horse, he had been through a difficult period of rehabilitation after a serious injury. Although he had been cleared by the vet to start training again, I was hesitant to push him too hard too soon.
He was my first horse, and during the time as a new horse owner, I had read all the books and watched all the videos on how to train a horse, but putting it into practice was a different story. I struggled with finding the right balance between pushing him enough to make progress and not pushing him too hard that he might get injured again.
To make matters worse, my horse was stubborn and easily distracted. He would often refuse to do what I asked him to do, and I found myself getting frustrated and discouraged.
I reached out to other horse owners for advice and tried various training techniques, but nothing seemed to work. I began to doubt my abilities as a horse owner and trainer.
It wasn’t until I sought the help of Jec ballou’s online program things started to turn around. With her guidance, I learned to read my horse’s body language and adjust my training accordingly. I also discovered new training methods that worked better for my horse’s personality and learning style.
Through perseverance and dedication, my horse and I made progress, and I saw her confidence grow with each training session. It was a long road, but the journey was worth it.
So, what’s the bottom line?
Rather than focusing on a set amount of time for training, we should pay attention to the horse’s individual needs and work to create a training program that is beneficial and enjoyable for them. As Ballou says, “The ideal length of a training session is one that leaves your horse feeling happy, relaxed, and energized.”
In addition, “The Rider’s Fitness Program” by Dianna Robin Dennis offers exercises specifically for riders to improve their own fitness and better support their horses during training.
Finally, “Equine Fitness” by Jec Aristotle Ballou provides a comprehensive guide to equine fitness, including information on conditioning, nutrition, and injury prevention.
Remember, the most important thing is to create a training program that works for both you and your horse, taking into account their individual needs and goals. Happy training!
Research paper:
McGreevy, P. D., McLean, A. N., Warren-Smith, A. K., & Waran, N. K. (2012). Training duration and subjective measures of stress in horses. Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research, 7(1), 33-39. doi: 10.1016/j.jveb.2011.03.001 Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1558787811000982
Have you ever wondered how to tell if your horse is in pain? As horse owners, it’s essential to be able to recognize the signs that our equine companions may be experiencing discomfort or suffering. Despite their size and strength, horses are prey animals and have evolved to hide signs of weakness or pain to avoid being targeted by predators. This means that they may not always show obvious symptoms of discomfort, making it crucial for us to pay close attention to their behavior and body language to detect any potential issues. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most common signs of pain in horses and discuss how to best care for and support our equine friends when they are experiencing discomfort.
Some common signs that your horse may be in pain include:
襤Changes in appetite:
Horses who are experiencing pain may become picky eaters or may refuse to eat altogether.
Changes in behavior:
Pain can make horses agitated, nervous, and irritable. You may notice that your horse is more difficult to handle or becomes more vocal than usual.
Changes in movement:
Horses may move differently when they are in pain. They may appear stiff, reluctant to move, or may move in an abnormal way.
留♀️Changes in posture:
Horses in pain may hold their head or body in a certain way to try to alleviate discomfort.
Changes in facial expressions:
Pay close attention to your horse’s face. Signs of pain may include a tense jaw, wrinkles around the eyes, or flared nostrils.
If you notice any of these signs in your horse, it’s important to take action to address the issue. Ignoring pain can lead to further complications and may cause your horse to become more difficult to manage.
There are many potential causes of pain in horses, including injuries, illness, dental issues, and more. If you suspect that your horse may be in pain, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and to develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Research has shown that horses are very good at hiding signs of pain. In a study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior, researchers found that horses who were experiencing pain due to a hoof abscess or laminitis showed fewer signs of pain when they were in the presence of their owners compared to when they were alone. This underscores the importance of paying close attention to your horse’s behavior and body language in order to detect any potential issues.
One day, one of our client ,Sarah. She went to the barn to check on her horse, Sparky. She noticed that he wasn’t eating his hay and seemed lethargic. When she tried to lead him out of his stall, he resisted and seemed reluctant to move. Sarah immediately suspected that something was wrong and called her veterinarian.
After a thorough examination, the vet determined that Sparky had a minor leg injury that was causing him pain. With proper treatment and pain management, Sparky was able to recover quickly and was back to his old self in no time.
Sarah was grateful that she had recognized the signs of pain in Sparky early on and had taken action to address the issue. She learned that paying close attention to her horse’s behavior and body language was key to detecting any potential issues and keeping Sparky healthy and happy.
In conclusion, it’s important for horse owners to be aware of the signs of pain in horses and to take action to address any issues. By paying close attention to your horse’s behavior and body language, consulting with a veterinarian, and providing appropriate pain management, you can help ensure that your horse stays healthy and comfortable for years to come.
Hey there horse lovers! Have you ever wondered what your horse is thinking or feeling when they make certain movements or expressions? As riders and caretakers, it’s important for us to understand our equine friends’ behavior and body language. By doing so, we can better communicate with them and develop a stronger bond. In this blog post, we’ll be exploring the fascinating world of horse behavior and delving into what your horse’s body language could be telling you. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s dive in!
Understanding horse behavior can be a complex topic, but it’s essential to create a good relationship with your equine partner. Horses are social animals, and they have a complex communication system that involves their entire body, including their facial expressions, ears, tail, and body posture. By learning to interpret their body language, you’ll be able to understand their emotions, fears, and intentions.
Let’s start by discussing some of the basic body language signals that horses use to communicate. We all know to look pining ears, wild eyes, tight mouth, and swishing tails, just repeat here again, in case you missed.
Ears
Horses use their ears to express their emotions. If your horse’s ears are forward, it means they’re alert and interested in something. However, if their ears are pinned back, it indicates that they’re angry or afraid.
Eyes
Horses have a keen sense of sight and use their eyes to communicate. If your horse’s eyes are wide open, it means they’re scared or anxious. On the other hand, if their eyes are half-closed, it indicates that they’re relaxed.
Mouth
A horse’s mouth can tell you a lot about their emotions. If your horse’s mouth is relaxed and open, it means they’re content. However, if their mouth is tight and closed, it indicates that they’re anxious or scared.
Tail
The position of your horse’s tail can also indicate their emotions. If their tail is raised, it indicates that they’re excited or alert. However, if their tail is tucked between their legs, it means they’re frightened.
Now that we’ve covered some of the basic body language signals, let’s discuss some of the more complex behaviors that horses exhibit.
There are more subtle cues that can tell you even more about your horse’s mood and intentions. These advanced body language signals can be useful in a variety of scenarios, from grooming to riding to handling emergencies. Here are some examples of advanced body language and how to interpret them:
The Tail Swish:
A horse’s tail can be a great indicator of their emotions. A quick, violent swish can mean anger or frustration, while a slow, gentle sway can indicate relaxation. However, there are also more nuanced tail movements to watch for. A horse that is flicking its tail quickly and frequently may be in pain or discomfort, while a tail that is held tightly against the body can indicate fear or anxiety.
Ear Movements:
While it’s common knowledge that horses swivel their ears to listen to their surroundings, the direction of their ears can also tell you about their mood. If your horse’s ears are pointed forward, they are alert and interested in what’s happening around them. If their ears are flattened against their head, they are angry or afraid. If one ear is pointed forward and the other is turned back, they may be unsure or confused.
The Eye Blink:
Horses have a unique way of blinking that can indicate their level of relaxation. If your horse blinks slowly and deliberately, they are likely calm and comfortable. However, if they are blinking rapidly or not at all, they may be experiencing stress or discomfort.
The Lip Twitch:
This is a subtle movement that can be easy to miss, but it can reveal a lot about your horse’s emotional state. When a horse twitches its lips, it can indicate anxiety or anticipation. It can also be a sign that they are feeling playful or curious.
The Stance:
A horse’s stance can also reveal a lot about their mood. If they are standing with their weight evenly distributed on all four feet, they are likely relaxed and comfortable. If they are standing with one foot slightly forward, they may be preparing to move or flee. If they are standing with their weight shifted to one side, they may be in pain or discomfort.
These are just a few examples of the advanced body language cues that horses use to communicate. By paying close attention to your horse’s body language, you can better understand their emotions and respond appropriately.
Advanced Body Language in Different Scenarios
Let’s take a look at some examples of how advanced body language can be applied in different scenarios:
Grooming:
When grooming your horse, pay attention to their tail swishes and ear movements. If your horse is swishing their tail frequently, it may be a sign that they are uncomfortable or in pain. If their ears are pinned back, they may be unhappy with the grooming process. On the other hand, if they are standing relaxed with their ears forward, they are likely enjoying the attention.
Riding:
When riding your horse, pay attention to their stance and tail movements. If they are standing with one foot slightly forward, they may be anticipating a cue from you. If their tail is swishing violently, they may be frustrated with the ride. If they are standing calmly with their weight evenly distributed, they are likely comfortable and relaxed.
Handling Emergencies:
In emergency situations, understanding your horse’s body language can be crucial. If your horse’s tail is held tightly against their body and their ears are flattened, they may be afraid or in pain. If they are standing with their weight shifted to one side, they may be injured or uncomfortable. By recognizing these signs, you can take appropriate action to keep both yourself and your horse safe.
Here we have 3 different client’s cases, you might find it useful.
Bella and her dominant behavior
Bella is a 5-year-old mare who was recently purchased by her owner, Mary. Mary noticed that Bella was exhibiting some dominant behavior towards her during their training sessions. Bella would try to nip at Mary’s arm or push her with her head.
Mary decided to seek advice from a professional trainer who pointed out that Bella was displaying dominant behavior through her body language. The trainer explained that Bella was positioning her head higher than Mary’s, pushing her body weight towards Mary, and using her ears and eyes to communicate her dominance.
The trainer helped Mary to work on establishing boundaries with Bella and to communicate her own dominance through her body language. Over time, Bella began to respond positively to Mary’s cues and the dominant behavior decreased.
Max and his fear of new objects
Max is a 7-year-old gelding who had a history of getting spooked by new objects. Whenever he saw something unfamiliar, he would freeze and refuse to move. His owner, John, tried to coax him with treats but it didn’t work.
John consulted with an equine behaviorist who pointed out that Max’s body language was indicating his fear. The behaviorist noted that Max’s ears were pinned back, his nostrils were flaring, and his muscles were tense.
The behaviorist suggested desensitization training to help Max overcome his fear. They introduced him to new objects gradually, starting with smaller ones and working up to larger ones. During the training, they observed Max’s body language closely and rewarded him for showing signs of relaxation.
Through the training, Max began to feel more confident around new objects and his fear diminished.
Daisy and her reluctance to move
Daisy is a 10-year-old mare who had become reluctant to move when her owner, Sarah, rode her. Sarah had tried various techniques to encourage her to move forward but Daisy continued to resist.
Sarah consulted with an equine chiropractor who noticed that Daisy was experiencing pain in her back muscles. The chiropractor explained that Daisy’s body language was indicating her discomfort. She was tensing her muscles, pinning her ears back, and swishing her tail.
The chiropractor provided treatment for Daisy’s back pain, and Sarah also worked with a trainer to improve her riding technique. They paid close attention to Daisy’s body language during their training sessions and made adjustments as needed.
Over time, Daisy’s reluctance to move diminished, and she began to move more freely and comfortably under Sarah’s guidance.
In conclusion, understanding your horse’s body language is essential for creating a healthy and trusting relationship with them. By observing their subtle cues and paying attention to their behavior, you can communicate more effectively with your horse and ensure that they feel safe and comfortable in their environment.
To deepen your understanding of horse behavior, I highly recommend reading
By incorporating the knowledge gained from these resources, you will be able to build a stronger bond with your horse, improve your horsemanship skills, and provide your equine companion with the best possible care. So, take the time to observe and listen to your horse, and watch as your relationship blossoms into a beautiful partnership built on trust and understanding.
